When you own a home with a masonry chimney, protecting it from water penetration is important. Chimney water leaks can lead to extensive and expensive damage to your home, so preventing leaks from occurring is crucial. For over 25 years, All Seasons Chimney has specialized in leaky chimneys, and we know the best ways to keep water out of your chimney. One of our many areas of expertise includes chimney crown installation and repair services. Because of the importance of a chimney crown, we have our own version of the Beyoncé “Single Ladies” song: “if you like it, then you should put a chimney crown on it.” We would like to tell you more about this essential component.
What exactly is a chimney crown?
The top element of a masonry chimney, the chimney crown serves to cover and seal the top of the chimney from the liner to the edge of the chimney, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). Without a chimney crown, water from rain, melted ice, and snow can easily enter your home through your chimney. To best protect your chimney, it is important to follow certain details during construction such as the type of mortar mix and the slope of the crown.
Why are these details so important during chimney crown construction?
When we construct a chimney crown, we make sure to use a Portland cement-based mortar mix. It is durable enough to withstand years of weather abuse and not crack or crumble. We will also apply a coat of a waterproofing agent to the crown to prevent water penetration damage. Our CSIA-certified chimney technicians also take careful measurements of your chimney. We want to ensure that the crown has the right angle of a downward slope as well as the proper length of an overhanging drip edge to direct the water running off from the crown.
What if my chimney crown is damaged?
Over the years, it is normal for your chimney crown to suffer from erosion damage. That is why we include a check of the chimney crown during our annual inspection service. It is difficult for the untrained eye to see the condition of the crown without getting on your roof. If we find cracks, gaps, or other damage rendering your crown ineffective, we can make necessary repairs. If the damage to the crown is beyond repair, we can also construct a new crown for you. We also provide you with photographs of the damage and a written estimate of necessary repairs.
Along with our chimney crown construction and repair services, All Seasons Chimney provides other professional water penetration prevention services, including chimney cap installation and waterproofing. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your annual chimney inspection to make sure your crown is in good condition.